Exploring the superb birdlife and untouched serenity of New Zealand’s largest unmodified wetland, over 3000 hectares of lagoons and wildlife rich waterways. Nature, bird, eco and photography enthusiasts will enjoy the open air boat, allowing an unobstructed experience with 360 degree views amongst feeding birds including the graceful Kotuku – Great White heron, Royal Spoonbills, the intrepid godwits from Siberia and Alaska, the leggy Pied Stilts, and many others. Having lived on the West Coast for 40+ years, your guide Swade readily identifies birds and native forest plants. The towering Southern Alps, Mount Cook and Mount Tasman and Franz Josef Glacier make for a spectacular backdrop to the coastal and rainforest environment on clear days.

Early Bird Tour

Ideal for early summer and summer conditions - great for photography with beautiful light and generally very calm conditions. Can be the best time to see birds feeding on the lagoon.

Departs 7:30am | Duration 80 minutes

Okarito Eco Tour

From wading birds to rainforest orchids, tidal lagoon wetlands and ancient plants and trees and river waterways - the 2 hour EcoTour is our most comprehensive tour set within this magnificent, untouched World Heritage Area.

Departs 9am, 11:30am | Duration 2 hours

Okarito Wetlands Tour

This tour is perfect for an introduction to the Okarito Wetland environment. The afternoon timeslot enables you to add this to your day after a visit to the Glaciers and learn about this diverse environment from sea to mountains.

Departs 2:30pm | Duration 1.5 hour

Price: $50 to $90

Directions

Okarito is 13 km’s off of SH6 on the west coast of the South Island. An hour and a half drive south of Hokitika or 25 minutes north of Franz Josef Glacier.

Check in 15 minutes prior to departure at Okarito Nature Tours, on the left as you enter Okarito Village.